If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that warms you up on chilly evenings, this Potato Kielbasa Soup is perfect for you. Packed with chunks of tender potatoes, savory kielbasa, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a rich and filling dish that’s easy to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is simple enough for everyone. Keep reading for detailed steps, tips, and variations to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time!

What is Potato Kielbasa Soup?
Potato Kielbasa Soup is a delicious, hearty soup that combines creamy potatoes and flavorful kielbasa sausage in a rich, broth-based dish. It's ideal for those who want a soup that’s both filling and full of savory flavors. The addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions boosts the nutritional value while enhancing the overall flavor. What’s great about this recipe is that you can tweak it based on your preferences, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.
Ingredients List for Potato Kielbasa Soup
To make a delicious pot of Potato Kielbasa Soup, you’ll need a combination of fresh vegetables, spices, and, of course, kielbasa sausage. Here's a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Additional Ingredients for Flavor Depth:
For an even richer and more flavorful soup, you can add some extra ingredients that will elevate the taste and texture:
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup chopped leeks (for a subtle oniony flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for an extra savory kick)
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder (adds depth to the broth)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this Potato Kielbasa Soup recipe is its flexibility. You can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some popular substitutions and variations to try:
- Kielbasa Substitute: If you don't have kielbasa on hand, you can use any smoked sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Make sure the sausage is pre-cooked for best results.
- Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the kielbasa with plant-based sausage, or use chickpeas or white beans for a protein-packed alternative. Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Lighter Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter soup, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk.
- Extra Veggies: Want to pack in more vegetables? Add diced zucchini, corn, or peas for added texture and nutrition.
- Spicy Variation: For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while sautéing the vegetables.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your Potato Kielbasa Soup? Follow these step-by-step instructions for a soup that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing and prepping all your vegetables. Peel and cube the potatoes, slice the carrots, dice the celery and onions, and mince the garlic. Slice your kielbasa into thin rounds.
- Sauté the Kielbasa: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables in the remaining oil from the kielbasa until they soften, about 5 minutes. The garlic should be fragrant, but not burned.
- Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the cubed potatoes. Stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend (Optional): For a thicker, creamier soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step.
- Add the Kielbasa and Cream: Return the browned kielbasa to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or milk and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika as needed.
- Serve: Once the soup is thick and creamy, remove it from the heat. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the final result:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Make sure to monitor your potatoes while they cook. Overcooking them can cause them to become mushy, which may affect the texture of the soup.
- Not Browning the Kielbasa: Don’t skip the step of browning the kielbasa. Browning adds depth and flavor to the sausage, which will infuse the entire soup with a savory richness.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Proper seasoning is key. Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings accordingly. Don't be afraid to add more herbs or spices if needed.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Potato Kielbasa Soup is a hearty dish that can be the star of your meal. However, with a few extra touches, you can elevate both its flavor and presentation.
How to Serve Potato Kielbasa Soup
- Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy broth. It’s a perfect pairing.
- Side Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the soup alongside a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. The salad adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Croutons or Crackers: Top your soup with homemade croutons or serve with crisp crackers for added crunch.
Presentation Ideas for Potato Kielbasa Soup
- Rustic Style: Serve the soup in large, rustic bowls to emphasize its hearty, home-cooked feel. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a pop of color.
- Bread Bowl: If you’re feeling creative, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This adds an extra element of fun and flavor to the presentation.
- Cheese Garnish: Grate a little Parmesan or sharp cheddar over the top of the soup before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Potato Kielbasa Soup Recipe Tips
Here are a few extra tips to ensure that your Potato Kielbasa Soup turns out perfectly every time:
- Use a Starchy Potato: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because they break down slightly while cooking, making the soup thicker and creamier. You can also use Yukon Golds for a buttery texture.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made in advance and reheated. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
- Freezing: Potato-based soups don’t always freeze well, as the potatoes can become grainy. However, if you want to freeze it, try undercooking the potatoes slightly before freezing and then fully cooking them when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply sauté the kielbasa and vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will give the soup a slightly sweeter flavor and a vibrant color. They’ll also add a boost of nutrition with more vitamins and fiber.
3. How long will Potato Kielbasa Soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this soup will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
4. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of smoked sausage or even a spicy sausage for a different flavor profile. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup.
5. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. It will still be creamy and flavorful without the dairy.
Conclusion
Potato Kielbasa Soup is the perfect meal for cozy nights or when you need a hearty, filling dish. It’s easy to customize, simple to make, and brimming with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a batch for weekday meals, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try it today and enjoy the comfort of a warm, homemade soup that's packed with rich, savory goodness.
PrintPotato Kielbasa Soup Recipe
This Potato Kielbasa Soup recipe is a deliciously hearty dish that combines creamy potatoes, savory kielbasa sausage, and a flavorful broth. With easy-to-find ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. The smoky flavor of the sausage pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the potatoes, making it a family favorite. Serve with your favorite bread to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Remove kielbasa and set aside. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Add cubed potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked kielbasa to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream.
- Substitute turkey kielbasa for a lighter version.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, depending on the saltiness of the broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
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